Responding to the recent call by Housing Secretary Michael Gove to postpone energy efficiency plans for rented housing, Ben Beadle, the Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), has signalled some concerns.

Beadle emphasized the considerable amount of time that has passed since the Government's consultation on energy efficiency standards in rented homes, stating, "It has been over two years since the Government completed its consultation on energy efficiency standards in rented homes. As a result of the delay in responding to this, there was never any hope of meeting the originally proposed deadlines, as we told the Minister earlier this month."

Under the Government's initial proposal, all new tenancies would be required to have an energy performance rating of C or higher by April 2025. This requirement would subsequently extend to all private rented housing by April 2028, and a national cap on landlords' contribution to improvements was proposed at £10,000.

Gove expressed his perspective on the matter in an interview with the Sunday Telegraph, stating, "My own strong view is that we're asking too much too quickly. We do want to move towards greater energy efficiency, but at this point, when landlords face significant challenges, I believe we should consider relaxing the set pace, particularly given the substantial capital outlay many landlords are currently facing to improve energy efficiency."

Beadle reaffirmed the NRLA's dedication to fostering energy-efficient properties while underlining the necessity for a clear path forward. He stated, "The NRLA is committed to promoting energy efficiency in properties, but the sector requires certainty regarding the how and when of implementation. Ministers should develop a comprehensive plan that includes a fair financial package to support improvements in the private rented sector. We will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to develop practical and viable proposals."